Question for Prevost owners about entrance door, air latch or manual latch?

[scanzel]

What have you Prevost owners done with your front air operated entrance door? Did you retain the air operation or did you remove it and add a latch assembly? I like the air door I presently have but you must always have an air supply for it's use. I am thinking of adding a small air compressor for a contant air supply but the latch seems much simpler except having to cut the door and installing it. If you converted to a latch where did you purchase it from? The problem with the air door latch is in the winter when no air is available, the door eventually wants to open up letting in snow, rain and maybe varmints. Thanks.

[Blacksheep]

Scanzel, I had that same problem until I fixed the door air mechanism. I would never alter the original air latch because you will never get it to seal as tight as it does with just a latch. The aire sucks the door in very tight and makes a good seal. Granted when no air is present, it works just like a regular latching door. To get mine working properly, I had to replace the "Norgren" valve under the dash. Ever since then, NO problems! It does take a bit to get it adjusted to where the door latch makes contact with the bus, it activates it to suck it in. If not adjusted properly, you have to pull in on it until it does suck in on it's own. Once it's in, you get virtually no air noise what so ever.
Keep the air if you can. I did, and I don't have any outside air source and glad I kept it!!

Ace

[fraser8]

I have a manual latch on the door,( http://parts.dietersaccessories.com/detail.aspx?ID=550 ) and kept the air latch as it closes the door very tight when traveling and is super secure at night. I wouldn't disable the air lock. I do have a question, there is a three way toggle switch on the out side by the door, I assume it is an automatic open/close door switch, any ideas, especially on how to fix it.

[BUR]

Scanzel, I have a 1980 Prevost that I removed the air lock from. I replaced it with a Peterbilt latch. Works very good and keeps the door very tight. It takes a bit of engineering to fabricate, but nothing the average do it your self er can't do. I bought most of the parts off Ebay.

[prevost82]

Scanzel, I have a 1982 Prevost, I removed the air lock from. I replaced it with a KW latch that I got out of wreaking yard, works good.

Ron

[rip]

I have an 85 Prevost and I use the air lock. I bought a small round key 24 volt key lock mounted outside next to the door.I have a air compressor with a dedicated air line running from the compressor to the air lock so always have air to the door. I cut in a door handle with connecting rods so the inside handle is higher than the outside. I posted all the part numbers several years ago so it may be in the archives.If not I will see if I can find my papers.If you mount a lock outside you must make sure the key will come out in both positions,most will not. I am building a house so it might take some time to find the item numbers.
    Don